Recently, American Humane reunited a retired military working dog, Dasty, with his former U.S. Army Sergeant and handler, Michael, during a touching reunion in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Dasty is a 10-year-old Dutch Shepherd and served as an explosives detection and patrol dog. Dasty and Michael spent four years together, including 10 months in Afghanistan.
In 2019, Michael was deployed to Logar Province Afghanistan. It was a significant personal sacrifice—at the time, Michael’s wife was pregnant with their first child—but he considered it his responsibility as a leader
At the base, service members slept in tents without heat or air conditioning, going without running water for weeks at a time. For Michael, Dasty offered comfort, companionship, and a sense of home while away from his pregnant wife. Dasty was an unofficial mascot for the base, raising everyone’s morale during a difficult time. He also saved countless lives while serving in Afghanistan, locating multiple IEDs. He did exceptionally well in combat, remaining steady and focused even when bullets were flying.
“We are grateful for the opportunity to bring military working dog Dasty home and reunite him with his best friend,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane. “American Humane is honored to help give this courageous canine the comfortable retirement he deserves after years of distinguished service to our country.”
While in Afghanistan, Michael and Dasty conducted combat missions in support of multiple countries. Additionally, following their deployment to Afghanistan, Michael and Dasty were reassigned to Fort Myer in Northern Virginia where they participated in multiple Secret Service missions for Presidents.
Michael and Dasty were separated in 2022 when the former left the Army to be with his wife and two young children.
When he heard of Dasty’s retirement, Michael reached out to American Humane for help transporting Dasty to his forever home. American Humane has also pledged to cover their veterinary bills for the rest of his life, ensuring that Dasty can enjoy the comfortable retirement he deserves.
Visit the Military Dog Reunification page to learn more and to support this program.